The Brazil international signed for the Gunners in 2011 for £6.8 million, but has slipped behind Kieran Gibbs and January signing Nacho Monreal in the pecking order, making just 13 Premier League starts for the club.

The 29-year-old maintains that he will return to play for the club as per Arsene Wenger’s wishes, however.

"I talked [with Wenger] and we decided together this would be a good chance for me to get on top of my game," he told the Evening Standard. "He gave me a hug and told me Arsenal would always welcome me back with open arms.

"He did [want me to stay] but he wanted to see me happy and if I am not performing all the time, then I am not happy. Do I have a future at the club? For sure.

"I always wanted to stay here until the end of my contract. This is a club where I feel comfortable and honoured to play. However, when the club acquired another left-back it was clear to me that I will not play.

"Hopefully, when I am back, I will be on top of my game and then I will be able to help the team the way I want to."

The relationship between Santos and the fans at the Emirates took a turn for the worse after the defender swapped shirts with Robin van Persie at half time during a defeat to Manchester United, something that left the Arsenal player confused but remorseful.

He continued: "The relationship was very good until the incident with Van Persie. I have apologised and moved on.

"I have all my respect to the fans of Arsenal. Hopefully soon I will be back and giving them many happiness."